Discover the wonders of Portugal

Deciding where to go on holiday can be tough, but with Portugal's idyllic scenery, stunning beaches, historic buildings and bustling cities, it really is the perfect location. In Portugal you can find the ideal holiday to suit all tastes and styles; so all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy yourself.

Portugal is certainly no secret holiday destination, as far as the UK is concerned. Britons have enjoyed the mild weather and pristine beaches for decades. But there is so much more to Portugal than sun and surf.

The Porto climate makes almost any time of year a good time to visit, with mild winters and hot summers and light rainfall from November till March.

Lisbon is, of course a popular destination for many holidaymakers, but the wealth of Porto attractions extend far beyond the capital's boundaries. In the south-central region of the country lies the lush and diverse province of Alentejo. Known as the bread basket of Portugal, this region is home to a variety of vistas and pastimes.

The south of the province is home to rolling plains, whilst dramatic granite hills border Spain in the northeast. The west is home to miles of pristine beachfront lined by warm ocean waters. The north also serves as grazing country for farmers whilst the central region is home to a charming landscape covered in vineyards, olive groves, cork oaks and sunflower patches. It's also the home to the Lusitano breed of horses and some of Portugal's best examples of roman, moorish, medieval and baroque architecture.

Castle towns and hilltop villages are scattered around a landscape that offers the visitor horse-riding adventures, wine tours, historical tours, nature lovers, surfers, hikers and bikers. And Alentejo accommodation offers some of Portugal's most elegant and historic options, from boutique hotels to historic Pousadas.

But if you're after something a little more urban, why not try Centro city breaks city breaks? The Centro province is where you'll find the snow-capped Serra da Estrela mountains, but it's also the province of the city of Coimbra, the city of the fascinating medieval university and the ancient Jewish quarter. In fact, if you're planning a romantic city break, look no further than Coimbra and its quaint cobbled streets and breathtaking medieval architecture. Or, still in Centro province, there's the seaside city of Aveiro, a perfect family holiday spot with beaches and canals. 

It's wise to remember that although English is relatively widely spoken here, it's always helpful for any tourist to brush up on a few useful Portuguese phrases such as Quanto é ele? (How much is it?) and Por favor ajude-me (Please help me). It'll certainly help you along with the famously friendly locals.

To discover great deals and the perfect ways to spend your much-needed holiday, log onto www.discoverportugal.org.uk today and you could be enjoying your Portuguese holiday in not time.

24 September 2009